Originally Posted by
Planeraz
No penalty for foreign airlines not using slots at EDI. Only UK registered airlines must use or lose slots following CAA’s amnesty on slots usage was withdrawn for S23. I wonder if EK is holding off to see what QR do before making a decision? They also have well documented staffing issues, which may be a factor. They are also due to take deliveries of A350’s and 787-9 in 2024. The recently rumoured return of Etihad is still on the cards according to contacts at EDI.
Etihad coming back would be a bit of surprise. Perhaps now that they're in a better financial shape, compared to the years of excessive and wasteful investments during the James Hogan era, they are looking at growing the business again in a more sustainable manner.
From a purely selfish point of view I'd prefer Emirates to return over Etihad, simply because they fly to destinations that Etihad don't fly to.
Still a bit of competition with Qatar would be good for EDI passengers regardless if either or both decide to return.